NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

How exercise affects aging stem cells

Official title: Impact of Exercise Adaptations on the Aging Stem Cell

Funded at Wichita State University · NIH-10937746 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how regular exercise can help improve the health and function of aging stem cells in the gut and testicles, which could lead to better ways to keep us healthy as we get older.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWichita State University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Wichita, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2024
Project endJune 30, 2028
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$165,982
NIH project number1R16GM154750-01
Project IDNIH-10937746 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are older adults interested in maintaining their health and preventing chronic diseases through lifestyle interventions.

Less likely to help

Patients with acute or severe health conditions unrelated to aging or stem cell function may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how endurance exercise influences the function of aging stem cells, specifically focusing on two types: intestinal stem cells and germline testis stem cells. By using a Drosophila model, the study aims to understand the signaling pathways affected by chronic exercise and how these changes can impact the healthspan, or the period of life free from chronic diseases. The research seeks to clarify the paradoxical effects of aging on these stem cells and how exercise adaptations can potentially restore their function. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new interventions for age-related decline in stem cell function.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing healthspan and preventing age-related diseases.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that exercise can positively influence stem cell function, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.

Where this research is happening

  • Wichita State University
    Wichita, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Loganathan, Rajprasad — Wichita State University
  • Study coordinator: Loganathan, Rajprasad

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.